Ben Thanh Market: Food, Shopping and Saigon Heritage

Ben Thanh Market is one of Ho Chi Minh City’s most recognizable landmarks, bringing together food stalls, souvenir shops and generations of trading history. Known locally as Chợ Bến Thành, it offers a lively introduction to shopping and eating in central Saigon.

Come with time to browse, an appetite for Vietnamese flavors and a little space in your bag for something to take home.

The History of Ben Thanh Market

The present market building opened in 1914, continuing a trading tradition that began at an earlier location. Its distinctive clock tower has become a familiar symbol of Ho Chi Minh City.

Situated beside Quach Thi Trang Square, the market remains both a commercial space and a popular sightseeing stop.

What to See and Do at Ben Thanh Market

Browse for souvenirs and Vietnamese products

Explore stalls selling clothing, textiles, coffee, tea, dried goods and ceramics. Compare a few stalls before choosing, and ask about materials, origin and prices if you are looking for a particular product.

For a thoughtful souvenir, consider something you will use at home, such as Vietnamese coffee or a small ceramic piece.

Discover Vietnamese food

The market’s food stalls serve dishes such as pho, broken rice and grilled pork with noodles, alongside drinks and sweet treats. Availability varies between vendors.

Choose a dish that interests you, confirm the price before ordering and take a break from browsing over a meal.

Photograph the clock tower

Start with an exterior photograph to capture the market’s recognizable entrance. Inside, focus on colorful displays and small details, asking permission before photographing vendors up close.

Tips for Visiting Ben Thanh Market

• Allow approximately 45–90 minutes, depending on how much shopping and eating you plan to do.
• Carry Vietnamese dong in smaller denominations for convenient purchases.
• Where bargaining is welcomed, keep it friendly and agree on the final price before buying.
• Ask whether an item has a fixed price before negotiating.
• Check current opening hours when planning your visit, particularly for an evening stop.

Include Ben Thanh Market in Your Saigon Itinerary

Make the market a food and shopping stop during a day exploring central Ho Chi Minh City. You could continue toward Nguyen Hue Walking Street or combine your visit with the Ho Chi Minh City Fine Arts Museum.

Leave room in your schedule to browse without rushing or pause at a café between attractions.